Munich: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stressed the necessity of ensuring Syria’s territorial integrity and political sovereignty, and forming an inclusive government in the new phase. Fidan made these remarks during a symposium held on the sidelines of the 61st Munich Security Conference.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Fidan highlighted that countries in the region had convened following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime to discuss their expectations from the new administration in Damascus. He noted that there is now an opportunity to address issues related to the Syrian file that have caused regional unrest for over a decade.
Fidan outlined several agreed-upon principles, emphasizing the importance of not seeing threats against neighboring countries, curbing the development of terrorism, ensuring fair treatment of minorities, and maintaining Syria’s territorial integrity and political sovereignty. He asserted that the new Syrian administration is responding positively to the demands of both international and regional communities, and he has not received major complaints from his counterparts or other officials regarding the administration.
He further explained that achieving stability in Syria requires the unification of armed factions, a matter the new administration is addressing comprehensively. Fidan emphasized that there should be only one legal armed force in any country and stressed the importance of unifying armed factions under one national army to maintain order and security for the Syrian people.
Fidan stated that Turkey’s current priorities include assisting Syria in reconstruction, restoring its economy, and rebuilding state institutions. He noted that Ankara expects Damascus to collaborate with Turkey in combating terrorist organizations. He identified the PKK/YPG organization as a significant threat to the region, similar to ISIS, and criticized the presence of international terrorists gathering in northern Syria under the guise of fighting ISIS.
Fidan criticized the PKK’s control over a significant portion of Syria, including oil and gas resources, which prevents the central government and millions of Syrians from benefiting from these resources. He confirmed that Turkey had discussed this issue with the US administration, including during detailed discussions with the previous administration at the end of its term, and now with the current administration.
He mentioned his recent meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, expressing hope for reaching an agreement. Fidan clarified that Turkey’s support in the region for 14 years does not imply any claim over Syria’s sovereignty. He emphasized the need to move beyond a culture of domination and establish a culture of cooperation, respect, solidarity, and commitment to each other’s sovereignty. Fidan concluded by expressing confidence in the potential for achieving this cooperative culture, highlighting lessons learned from regional events.